1. Thanking the host

We know you’re happy to be there (you are, aren’t you?) – you don’t need to tell us. You also don’t need to thank the host, the audience, the A/V crew, the guy that brought you breakfast or your taxi driver from the night before.

Let’s assume you love ’em all. Not get on with your speech.

2. Talking about your trip

If you want to alienate an audience fast, talk about your hotel, flight and your taxi ride to the hotel. Remember, that’s not how most people live.

Instead, talk about things that matter to them, like: their boss, clients, making sales, paying a mortgage, kids, marriage and health. The more they know you know them, the more they’ll trust you and learn from you.

3. Making excuses

Shit happens – don’t make excuses. When you make excuses you put more attention on what’s wrong. Assume something will go wrong and know how to roll with it.

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About Hugh Culver

I teach experts the business of speaking in BOSS (Business Of Speaking School). I help bloggers get noticed with SOS (Stand Out Social). And I speak on how to think better, plan smarter and act on what really matters.

Good points Patti – I think all speakers need to put more weight on the event planner as a client and (slightly) less on the delegates. At the end of the day you can’t get your message out if planners don’t hire you and planners care about great events (1), happy delegates (2)….happy speakers (7?)